Darrell Hammond

All impressionists aim to isolate identifying characteristics and distort them to perversely satisfying extremes. Darrell Hammond's a genius at it. Now in his 12th season on Saturday Night Live, Hammond has the somewhat dubious distinction of having the longest continuous tenure in SNL history. Perhaps the most gifted impressionist since Rich Little (with a sharper satirical bite) he's known for his takes on Bill Clinton, Al Gore, and much of the Bush cabinet (including an uncanny Dick Cheney) as well as Sean Connery, Donald Trump, and Chris Matthews. Before joining SNL the Florida native did radio and theater in New York, but in the last several years he's crafted a solid stand-up act showcasing his impressions and discerning bits on pop culture. He hasn't appeared in Chicago since 1999. Fri 9/8, 7:30 and 9:45 PM, Sat 9/9, 7 and 9:15 PM, the Improv, Woodfield Mall, Golf Rd. at Route 53, Schaumburg, 847-240-2001, $31. All shows two-drink minimum, 21+.